*Photograph: Charlie Glynn/RNLI
A five year old girl that was swept out to sea along the Shannon Estuary was rescued carefully by members of the Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue 115 and the Kilrush RNLI on Thursday afternoon.
Shortly after 3pm, the Kilrush RNLI lifeboat launched following a report that a child was swept out to sea on an inflatable lilo. They along with Coast Guard Helicopter Rescue 115 were tasked by Valentia Coast Guard to Beal Strand on the Kerry shore of the Shannon Estuary.
When Kilrush Lifeboat arrived on scene, Rescue 115 had located the casualty some distance from the shore and winched a crew member into the water to provide assistance. The casualty was in a distressed state and had ingested water. Kilrush RNLI volunteers took the casualty onboard the lifeboat, where she was assessed, before taking her safely to Beal Strand, to an awaiting Rescue 115.
The casualty was subsequently taken by Rescue 115 to University Hospital Kerry in Tralee, as a precaution. The strong wind and tides are believed to have resulted in her being swept to sea.
At 3:40pm, the Kilrush RNLI lifeboat was stood down and returned to station.
Volunteers with Kilrush RNLI such as press officer, Charlie Glynn were thankful for a successful outcome but have appealed to anyone visiting the coast over the June Bank Holiday weekend to adhere to RNLI safety advice.
- Take care near cliffs – know your route and your limitations
- Have a plan – check the weather forecast and tide times
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
- If boating, ensure your equipment is functioning and maintained
- In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
“As the current COVID-19 restrictions continue to apply, the RNLI continue to be fully operational and on call 24/7. It is appreciated that people will want to get out for a break and take to the water if they are living or exercising near the coast, however, we are asking everyone to follow Government travel instructions,” Glynn said.
